Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act Lawyer in Maryland
Injured at a Port, Shipyard, or on the Water? You May Be Covered by the Longshore Act
If you’re a longshoreman, harbor worker, or shipyard employee injured on the job, a special federal law—the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA)—may cover your claim. The LHWCA protects maritime workers who load, unload, build, or repair ships, as well as those working on docks, piers, wharves, dry docks, and shipyards. This law applies to many port workers in Maryland, including at the Port of Baltimore and terminals along the Chesapeake Bay. Beiser Law Firm helps injured maritime workers statewide and nationally, ensuring you get every benefit you deserve.
Support Through Key Maritime Work Injury Scenarios
Dockworker and Harbor Accidents
If you’re injured loading cargo, operating cranes, or working on ship repairs near navigable waters, the LHWCA may provide your compensation and medical coverage.
Shipyard and Construction Site Injuries
Maritime construction and repair jobs often lead to serious accidents. We know how to prove “status” and “situs” for federal coverage, protecting your access to higher benefits.
Denied or Misclassified Claims
Some employers and insurers may try to classify you under state comp to pay less. We fight to ensure you qualify for the LHWCA if that brings you more.
Medical Bills and Lost Wage Support
LHWCA typically covers medical costs and pays two-thirds of your average weekly wage—sometimes with higher maximums than Maryland state comp.
Fatalities and Family Benefits
If tragedy strikes, the Act provides death benefits to families. We help survivors secure full compensation.
Mistakes That Can Cost Maritime Workers Their Benefits
- Not reporting your injury right away or failing to document it properly.
- Filing under the wrong system—state vs. federal—resulting in lost benefits.
- Not seeking legal advice, leading to misclassified or denied claims.
- Missing deadlines for notices, appeals, or medical documentation.
- Overlooking third-party negligence claims (e.g., a shipowner causing the accident).
How We Help—Choosing State or Federal Claims for Maximum Benefit
Defense Base Act Claims
Contractors or federal employees injured overseas can turn to our dedicated team for Defense Base Act guidance.
Eligibility Analysis
We quickly determine if your job duties and injury location qualify you for LHWCA benefits, or if Maryland workers’ comp is better for your case.
Filing and Process Guidance
Our team manages all filings, notices, and appeals with the U.S. Department of Labor, ensuring your claim is handled under the most advantageous law.
Standing Up to Insurers
We advocate fiercely if your employer’s insurer tries to downplay or misclassify your claim, providing clear evidence of your maritime status and injury situs.
Comprehensive Support
From medical evidence to wage loss calculations, we coordinate every aspect to get you paid without delay, while you focus on your recovery.
Port Experience in Maryland
Beiser Law Firm has successfully represented longshoremen and harbor workers at the Port of Baltimore, Sparrow’s Point, and across the Chesapeake region.
FAQ—Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act
Who is covered by the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act?
Generally, maritime workers who load, unload, build, or repair ships—or support shipping operations at docks, wharves, piers, and shipyards—are covered, as long as the injury occurs on or near navigable waters. Crew members of vessels are not covered under LHWCA.
Do I get to choose between state and Longshore benefits?
No. The right system depends on your job and injury location. We ensure you file correctly to maximize your benefits.
Is the Longshore Act better than Maryland workers’ comp?
Sometimes. LHWCA can offer higher weekly benefits and broader coverage, but every situation is unique. We’ll analyze your case to get you the best result.
Can I sue someone for my injury?
Like workers’ comp, you generally can’t sue your employer. However, if a third party (such as a vessel owner or outside contractor) caused your accident, we can pursue a separate negligence claim alongside your LHWCA benefits.
Do I need a lawyer for a Longshore Act claim?
Federal claims are complex and insurers may resist paying under LHWCA. Having an experienced attorney ensures you get every dollar and benefit you’re entitled to.
Get Legal Help for Dockworker and Maritime Injuries—Start Here
Port workers across Maryland—from the Port of Baltimore to terminals along the Chesapeake—choose Beiser Law Firm for our experience, local understanding, and determination to maximize your compensation. Let us take on the legal burden so you can focus on healing and moving forward.